The Salisbury Police Department’s Victim Advocacy Division, in collaboration with the Family Crisis Council of Rowan, Inc., is coordinating various events and initiatives throughout October to raise awareness concerning domestic violence as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
These events will be led by Dr. Alberta McLaughlin, the department's dedicated Victim/Witness Advocate, and Angel Chapman-McDavid, Executive Director of the Family Crisis Council. Their goal is to help community members recognize the signs of domestic violence, provide essential support services, and offer safety tips for creating an escape plan for those in danger.
Domestic violence is a widespread issue that includes willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and a cycle of power and control by one intimate partner over another. It often manifests as physical and sexual violence, threats, and emotional, psychological, or economic abuse.
“Domestic violence knows no boundaries,” said Dr. McLaughlin. “It impacts individuals from all backgrounds—regardless of race, economic status, sexual orientation, or nationality. This kind of violence is never acceptable in any form.”
The Victim Advocacy Division at the Salisbury Police Department is committed to offering support to victims and raising community awareness to prevent and combat domestic violence.
Angel Chapman-McDavid echoed the department’s dedication: “The Family Crisis Council is committed to supporting and empowering survivors of domestic violence. We provide resources to help individuals overcome traumatic circumstances and are devoted to educating the public on the deep impact domestic violence has on individuals, families, and communities.”
Activities throughout October include:
- Wear Purple Wednesdays: Residents and supporters are encouraged to wear purple every Wednesday in October to show solidarity with domestic violence survivors.
- Domestic Violence Awareness Event and Walk: This event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Attendees are asked to wear purple in support of domestic violence awareness. More details will be provided in the coming weeks.
For those in a domestic violence-related situation, assistance is available. Contact the Family Crisis Council 24-hour Hotline at 704-636-4718 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).